William Smedley Killed in Shocking Crash on Fairgrounds Road

Odessa Motorcyclist Dies After Head-On Collision on Fairgrounds Road; Teen Driver Faces Manslaughter Charge

Midland County, TX (June 2, 2025) — 47-year-old William Smedley of Odessa died following a motorcycle crash on Friday night in Midland County that led to the arrest of 19-year-old Eduardo Gaytan.

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Smedley was riding a 2021 Ducati motorcycle southbound on Fairgrounds Road when a northbound 2013 Hyundai Sonata crossed into the opposite lane while attempting to pass another vehicle. Investigators said the Hyundai was traveling without headlights when it entered the southbound lanes and collided with the motorcycle.

Emergency crews transported Smedley to Midland Memorial Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Authorities identified the Hyundai driver as 19-year-old Eduardo Gaytan of Midland. He was not injured in the collision. Following the investigation, officers arrested Gaytan on a charge of intoxication manslaughter with a vehicle. He is being held on a $250,000 bond.

The crash remains under investigation by the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Sweet Lawyers extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of William Smedley. May they find comfort and strength as they grieve this tragic and unexpected loss.

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